Restaurant is local in reach, global in flavor

Cliff Clavin and Norm Peterson may not be seated at the bar being served drinks by Sam Malone, but there is a definite resemblance to the "Cheers" television show at Babaloo International Cafe and Bar.

"Most of our business are regulars," co-owner Fred Routon said. "We have kind of like a 'Cheers' atmosphere here, where everyone knows your name."

Manager John Sullivan said guests have become so comfortable that many have their usual spots and some even ask for a table by number when they call in a reservation.

"It's a little bit of everything that makes this place work out," Sullivan said.

Among the things that make Babaloo distinctive in Katy is not only the tapas—a selection of dishes served throughout the meal until diners' appetites are satisfied—and an ever-evolving menu, but also a focus on Latin music and the inclusion of an art gallery.

"We're trying to get the flavors of the north, south, east and west areas of the world," Routon said.

Born in Spain, Routon has lived in many places around the world, accumulating recipes and a taste for international cuisine. He brings his taste and passion to Katy along with his business partner Ana Villaronga-Roman and general manager Eddy Panesso.

Villaronga is president of Katy Area Artists and is the owner and curator of Babaloo Gallery, which is incorporated into the restaurant. Although the art augments the setting, the atmosphere is driven by the ever-present Latin music, including a video DJ on Thursday nights and live music on the weekends.

Routon said the Latin theme and the restaurant's name are inspired by another television show.

"It's derived from 'I Love Lucy,'" he said. "It's derived from something that always makes me happy."

On the show, Desi Arnaz's character Ricky Ricardo was a struggling Cuban orchestra leader who famously sang "Babalu" to his fictional wife, Lucy, played by his real wife, Lucille Ball.

Babaloo is the 19th restaurant Routon has owned. Building on past successes and his globetrotting exploits, Routon said he has learned what people want in an establishment like Babaloo International Cafe and Bar.

"One cuisine can get stale, therefore we try to introduce global flavors," he said.

The menu is strongly influenced by European and South American dishes, accented with a Texas touch.

Keeping things new and fresh and of the highest quality are important to Routon.

"We hand-pick our tomatoes rather than buy them by the case," he said.

Although the largest crowds come after dinner for drinks and dancing, the food is what brings people in the door.

"We're known for our extensive dish menu and our sangrias," Routon said.

When it comes to sangrias, Sullivan is the resident expert on the fruity drink.

"We sell pitcher after pitcher after pitcher after pitcher of sangrias every week," he said.

Regular customer Karl Rieger of Houston said he likes to get the Bacon, Lettuce, and Fried Green Tomato sandwich when he comes in for lunch. He said he enjoys the food, the people and the atmosphere.

"This place has a great atmosphere," he said. "It's just a fun party place. It's an easy-going crowd, and everybody gets along."

Owner recommendations

• Arranchini—Homemade risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce ($6)
• Empanadas Argentina—Empanadas filled with seasoned ground beef, peas, potato and raisins served with caramelized onion currant sauce ($5)
• Chicken Lettuce Wraps—Sauteed chicken breast and vegetables with an Asian sauce, served in cool lettuce wrap ($8)
• Gambas Al Ajillo—Sauteed shrimp with Frana's Spanish saffron seasoning, garlic and extra virgin olive oil served on top of polenta ($9)
• Torre de Pollo—Chicken and vegetables wrapped in a philo dough tower with an aioli mayonnaise ($7)

Babaloo International Cafe and Bar, 22756 Westheimer Parkway, Katy, 281-391-4167, www.babaloocafe.net

• Hours: Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–(open-ended)
• Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–2 a.m.
• Closed on Sunday